Antoine Semenyo reportedly wants to join Liverpool rather than Manchester United if he decides to leave Bournemouth during the January transfer window. The winger has excelled on the south coast this season, with a number of Premier League clubs chasing his signature.
Semenyo joined Bournemouth from Bristol City just under three years ago and has made 105 appearances for the Cherries, scoring 29 goals and providing 13 assists. He has been one of England’s most exciting attacking players this season, contributing seven goals in 15 Premier League appearances. And his performances helped the team rise to second place in October, but they had fallen to 13th place before this weekend’s game.
Semenyo’s contract with Bournemouth has a release clause, which is said to be likely to be triggered in early January. The clause was revealed last month and is thought to be set at £65m.
However, according to the Guardian, the clause could actually be triggered for just under £65m, a total that includes royalty money and payments to agents.
United are said to be in a race with Liverpool and Manchester City to sign the 25-year-old away from the Vitality Stadium.
According to reports, the player wants to move to Anfield, with Manchester City currently his second choice.
Liverpool manager Arne Slott is keen to bring Semenyo to Merseyside to replace Mohamed Salah, who was targeted by the Reds after missing the pitch against Leeds earlier this month.
Members of the public have also contacted the Bournemouth star and his agent. And Semenho’s decision should not be influenced by Josep Guardiola’s future, with recent speculation suggesting the Spaniard could leave the Etihad Stadium next summer, a year before his contract expires.
Meanwhile, United manager Reuben Amorim is pursuing the Ghana international to strengthen his side’s options at wing-back and attack. The Portuguese manager is said to want Semenho to play as a left wing-back or as a number 10 if he agrees to move to Old Trafford.
Tottenham are also thought to be interested in signing the talented attacker, but a deal is said to be unlikely.
Semenyo scored his first goal since early October on Monday night as Bournemouth drew 4-4 with Manchester United in a thrilling Premier League game. Ahead of Saturday’s game, he was the third-highest scorer in the Premier League this season.
